Those looking to construct new buildings or add on to existing ones in downtown Kirksville may soon need to check city codes and have their plans reviewed by members of the Kirksville Historic Preservation Commission.

Members of the Kirksville Historic Preservation Commission put eyes on a possible ordinance governing new construction in downtown Kirksville during Wednesday's meeting. Codes and Planning Director Brad Selby introduced the draft language to the commission along with results from a survey of downtown businesses, which indicated local business owners would be receptive to an ordinance directing new construction, but opposed an ordinance regarding building renovations or minor improvements and repairs.

The ordinance states its purpose is to "ensure that any new buildings being constructed in the Downtown Area, or buildings that have additions built on that increase the square footage of the building, after the effective date of this ordinance, are architecturally coherent, and do not conflict with the appearance of other buildings in the area."

A two-person committee of the KHPC board would be responsible for reviewing and approving the building plans.

Those violating the proposed ordinance would be subjected to penalties outlined in the city's code, which calls for a maximum fine of $500 or three months in jail.

KHPC members are expected to vote on the ordinance language at their October meeting. Before then, the ordinance will be reviewed by the city attorney and members of the Planning and Zoning Commission.

If the KHPC approves the language, it would be sent to a vote before the Planning and Zoning Commission. If approved there it would be sent before the Kirksville City Council.

Selby said city staff would work to establish a set of guidelines on those areas that fall outside the proposed ordinance.